‘From Evidence to Impact Series: Strengthening Urban Health Systems to Respond to the Increased Prevalence of NCDs
To mark World Diabetes Day 2025, we are holding the second event in our ‘From Evidence to Impact series.
We are bringing together researchers, stakeholders and experts from Bangladesh, Ghana and Nepal to share findings, lessons and insights on strengthening health systems to respond to the rising urban crisis in Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).
13th November 2025, from 10.00 – 11.00 GMT. Register for the event here.
Urbanisation is associated with an increased prevalence of NCDs (e.g. cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, mental ill-health). The urban middle-classes are contending with increased prevalence of NCDs, whilst the urban poor are affected by both communicable diseases and NCDs, due to the wider determinants of health, such as poor water and sanitation, overcrowding and pollution. This double burden of NCDs and communicable diseases requires new approaches within urban health systems that: address both the structures and functions of health systems as well as the attitudes and norms of those working within the systems; pay attention to gender, disability and other social differences and identities; increase accessibility to quality public and private primary health care and create feasible referral and reporting systems.
CHORUS research highlights that urban-specific approaches are frequently needed, particularly to respond to the vulnerabilities faced by the poorest urban residents and those living in informal settlements. This webinar will discuss urban specific challenges, and responses to these challenges across cities we have been working in. We will hear from policymakers and stakeholders on implementing health system strengthening interventions for improved NCD service delivery, and what else needs to be done to improve access and quality NCD service delivery particularly for the poorest urban populations.
Chair: Professor Rumana Huque, Bangladesh CHORUS Co-PI and Director, ARK Foundation
Panel Members:
- Professor Malay Kanti Mridha, Deputy Dean, Director, Centre for NCDs and Nutrition, BRAC JPG, BRAC University, Bangladesh
- Professor Dr Syed Zakir Hossain, (Former) Line Director, NCD Control, Director General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Bangladesh
- Dr. William Bosu, NCD Specialist, Public Health Consultant and (Former) WAHO Principle Professional Officer, Ghana
We look forward to seeing you there. Look out for live updates on the CHORUS social media handles:
BlueSky @CHORUSUrban
LinkedIn: CHORUS Urban Health